Qualified Fallers assigned to a Type II wildfire crew are expected to perform all duties required of a Firefighter Type II while also providing advanced falling expertise in support of wildfire suppression operations. This is a specialized position intended for experienced wildfire personnel who can operate safely and effectively in complex, high-risk, and physically demanding environments. In addition to standard Type II crew activities such as hand guard construction, water delivery systems, pump operations, hose lays, mop-up, patrol, and sustained attack support, Qualified Fallers are responsible for assessing, falling, and removing dangerous timber and other hazards that may impact crew safety, access, suppression objectives, or line construction.
This role requires a high degree of judgment, hazard recognition, situational awareness, and technical proficiency. Qualified Fallers must be able to work safely in remote and adverse conditions, often under tight timelines and changing fire behavior, while coordinating closely with Crew Leads, other fallers, and crew personnel. As part of a Type II crew, they are expected to contribute fully to suppression efforts while bringing an additional layer of specialized capability to the team. Qualified Fallers are also expected to maintain professionalism and strong working relationships with BC Wildfire Service and other clients through safe, dependable, and high-quality field performance.
While not engaged in active fire response, Qualified Fallers may be scheduled for base support duties, equipment maintenance, training, physical fitness testing, project-based work, or other operational assignments where available. However, as this is an on-call position, non-fire assignments and hours of work cannot be guaranteed and will depend on fire activity, operational requirements, and project availability.
Safety:
- Maintain and promote a high degree of personal safety and crew safety at all times.
- Perform falling operations in accordance with applicable safety standards, company procedures, and client requirements.
- Assess timber, terrain, escape routes, overhead hazards, fire conditions, and surrounding crew activity prior to commencing falling work.
- Identify and mitigate hazards associated with dangerous trees, burned timber, snags, leaners, and other complex falling situations.
- Communicate clearly and effectively with Crew Leads, crew members, and nearby resources to ensure safe work zones are established and maintained.
- Safely operate and maintain chainsaws, falling equipment, and associated tools required for wildfire suppression and falling operations.
- Support the crew in performing strenuous and physically demanding work in remote areas and adverse conditions, including smoke, steep terrain, extreme heat, and extended operational periods.
- Travel safely by truck, ATV, boat, helicopter, or other modes of transportation required for deployment.
- Maintain personal health and physical fitness to regularly and efficiently perform both Firefighter Type II and falling duties.
Operations:
- Perform all duties expected of a Firefighter Type II as required by the assignment, including hand guard construction, hose handling, water delivery systems, mop-up, patrol, and general suppression activities.
- Provide specialized falling support to the Type II crew during initial attack, sustained attack, and extended operations.
- Fall and remove timber as required to support crew access, Fireline construction, site safety, hazard mitigation, and incident objectives.
- Work closely with the Crew Lead and other qualified personnel to ensure falling activities are coordinated with suppression tactics and overall crew movement.
- Adjust work practices and operational approach based on changing fire behavior, terrain, weather, and crew needs.
- Maintain a strong understanding of wildfire suppression objectives and how falling operations integrate into broader Fireline activities.
Quality & Professionalism:
- Maintain professional deportment and demeanor at all times.
- Represent the company professionally in interactions with BC Wildfire Service, agency personnel, contractors, and the public.
- Attend and successfully complete required wildfire suppression, safety, and falling-related training as required by management or contract conditions.
- Be available for standby and on-call work, extended hours, overtime, and extensive travel with limited notice.
- Participate in camp shifts and live in camp-style environments for extended periods, including up to 16 consecutive days or as operationally required.
- Ensure daily equipment, supplies, and personal gear are organized, maintained, and deployment ready.
- Perform non-fire-related duties such as base upkeep, equipment maintenance, or other assigned work where available.
Team Contribution:
- Work cooperatively within a structured crew environment and follow direction from Crew Leads, supervisors, and incident personnel.
- Support crew safety and effectiveness by communicating hazards, maintaining awareness of surrounding personnel, and contributing to a disciplined team culture.
- Assist with crew objectives beyond falling duties where operationally required and where safe to do so.
- Lead by example through work ethic, preparedness, accountability, and adherence to safety standards.
Profitability & Efficiency:
- Ensure all activities are conducive to company interests by working in a safe, efficient, prepared, and responsible manner.
- Maintain company equipment and assigned resources in good working order and report maintenance or replacement needs promptly.
- Support efficient field operations by minimizing avoidable downtime and ensuring readiness for assignments.
- Contribute to the company’s reputation and client satisfaction through dependable, skilled, and professional performance.
Qualifications:
- Must meet all qualifications and requirements of a Firefighter Type II position.
- Must hold valid falling certification accepted for wildfire operations through one or more of the following:
- BC Wildfire Service
- BC Forest Safety Council
- Enform/CAGC Level 3
- Must be able to demonstrate experience and competency in falling operations in complex and hazardous environments.
- Chainsaw proficiency, hazard assessment, and safe decision-making in dynamic field conditions are essential.
- Must maintain fitness, availability, and readiness required for on-call wildfire deployment.
The starting wage for this position is $750.00/day, with potential for progression based on experience and development within the role.
